The Opel Astra K Sports Tourer 1.6d (136 hp) Automatic, produced from 2018 to July 2019, represents a practical and fuel-efficient offering within the broader Astra K generation (2015-2021). Positioned as a mid-range trim, it catered to buyers seeking the versatility of a station wagon (estate) body style combined with a balance of performance and economy. This variant occupied a space between the lower-powered diesel options and the more potent petrol engines, aiming for a broad appeal within the European market. It was built on the GM’s 111 platform, also known as the H platform.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra K Sports Tourer |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6d (136 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | July, 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.1-6.3 l/100 km (38.6 – 37.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1-4.4 l/100 km (57.4 – 53.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.8-5.1 l/100 km (49 – 46.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 126-134 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 207 km/h (128.62 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-Temp |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 3500-4000 rpm |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 2000-2250 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D16DTH |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79.7 mm (3.14 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.1 mm (3.15 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1381 kg (3044.58 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Max load | 619 kg (1364.66 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 540 l (19.07 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1630 l (57.56 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 48 l (12.68 US gal | 10.56 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 680 kg (1499.14 lbs.) |
| Length | 4702 mm (185.12 in.) |
| Width | 1809 mm (71.22 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1871 mm (73.66 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2042 mm (80.39 in.) |
| Height | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2662 mm (104.8 in.) |
| Front track | 1544 mm (60.79 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1558 mm (61.34 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.05 m (36.25 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16; 225/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7J x 16; 7.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Astra variant is the D16DTH engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine belongs to Opel’s ‘Whisper Diesel’ family, known for its relatively quiet operation and focus on fuel efficiency. It utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power output and improve torque across a wider rev range. The engine produces 136 horsepower at 3500-4000 rpm and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque between 2000-2250 rpm. The engine also incorporates a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to meet stringent Euro 6d-Temp emission standards. Paired with the engine is a six-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth gear changes and enhancing driving comfort. This transmission isn’t known for particularly sporty shifts, prioritizing efficiency and refinement over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6d Automatic Astra Sports Tourer delivers a comfortable and composed driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 9.7 seconds, and top speed is rated at 128.62 mph. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the engine provides adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising. The automatic transmission contributes to a relaxed driving style, particularly in urban environments. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the same engine, the automatic offers less driver engagement but greater convenience. Higher-powered petrol variants, such as the 1.4 Turbo, provide significantly quicker acceleration, but at the expense of fuel economy. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, meaning the engine doesn’t always feel particularly responsive when requesting sudden bursts of power.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Astra K Sports Tourer 1.6d Automatic typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, alloy wheels, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels offered upgrades such as heated seats, a larger touchscreen display, navigation system, and advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with leather options available as an upgrade. Dashboard design was modern and functional, with a focus on ergonomics.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra K Sports Tourer features a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The chassis is relatively lightweight, contributing to the car’s agility. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power. The steering is electrically assisted, offering a light and precise feel. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Astra K Sports Tourer 1.6d Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered when fully loaded or tackling steep hills. Compared to rivals like the Ford Focus Estate and Volkswagen Golf Estate, the Astra offered a competitive package in terms of price, features, and running costs. The 1.6d engine offered a better balance of economy and performance than the lower-powered 1.0-liter petrol engine, but lacked the refinement and power of the larger 1.4-liter turbo petrol.
Legacy
The D16DTH engine, while generally reliable, is known to require regular maintenance, particularly regarding the DPF system. Proper servicing and the use of high-quality diesel fuel are crucial to prevent issues. The six-speed automatic transmission is also generally durable, but can be susceptible to wear and tear with high mileage. In the used car market, the Astra K Sports Tourer 1.6d Automatic represents a sensible and affordable option for buyers seeking a practical and fuel-efficient estate car. Its combination of space, economy, and comfort continues to make it a popular choice.
